Replace the steering angle sensor located in the steering column assembly to restore traction control, stability control, and steering angle feedback functionality.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering angle sensor × 1 — Motorcraft DY-1162 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface with wheels pointed straight ahead
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 10 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
4. Set parking brake firmly
5. Lower steering column to lowest position and tilt fully forward for access

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Remove the lower steering column trim covers by removing the Torx screws (typically T20). Separate the upper and lower column shrouds by releasing the retaining clips. Set covers aside in a clean area.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Locate the steering angle sensor electrical connector on the steering column near the base. Press the locking tab and disconnect the connector. If present, disconnect any additional wiring harness clips securing wires to the column.
3. 3

   Mark steering shaft alignment
   Using a paint pen or marker, make an alignment mark across the steering shaft and steering column coupling to ensure proper reassembly position. This is critical for maintaining steering wheel centered position.
   ℹ️Take a photo of the alignment marks for reference during reassembly
4. 4

   Remove intermediate shaft bolt (if required)
   If the sensor requires removal of the intermediate shaft coupling, remove the pinch bolt securing the intermediate shaft to the steering column shaft. Note that some F-150 models allow sensor replacement without shaft disconnection. Refer to specific sensor mounting configuration.
   ⚠Do not allow steering wheel to rotate once shaft is disconnected
5. 5

   Remove steering angle sensor mounting fasteners
   Locate the steering angle sensor mounting bolts or screws on the steering column. Remove the fasteners (typically 2-3 bolts or Torx screws). The sensor is usually mounted around the steering shaft below the column lock mechanism.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove steering angle sensor
   Carefully slide the steering angle sensor assembly off the steering shaft. Note the orientation of any alignment features, tabs, or gear teeth that engage with the steering shaft. Do not force the sensor; it should slide off freely once fasteners are removed.
7. 7

   Install new steering angle sensor
   Position the new steering angle sensor over the steering shaft, ensuring any alignment tabs, gear teeth, or keying features properly engage with the shaft. The sensor must be fully seated against the column mounting surface. Verify the sensor rotates smoothly with the shaft without binding.
   ⚠Ensure sensor alignment features engage correctly or calibration will fail
8. 8

   Install sensor mounting fasteners
   Install the steering angle sensor mounting bolts or screws and torque to specification. Ensure the sensor is properly aligned and seated before final torquing. Verify the sensor housing does not contact any wiring or interfere with column movement.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect intermediate shaft (if disconnected)
   If the intermediate shaft was disconnected, align the shaft coupling using the alignment marks made during disassembly. Install the pinch bolt and torque to specification. Verify the steering wheel is still centered and has not rotated.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Reconnect the steering angle sensor electrical connector, ensuring it clicks securely into place. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged. Secure any wiring harness clips to the steering column.
11. 11

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Reinstall the upper and lower steering column shrouds, ensuring all retaining clips engage properly. Install the cover screws and torque to specification. Verify covers do not interfere with steering wheel movement or column adjustment.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and perform sensor calibration
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Using a professional scan tool with steering angle sensor calibration capability, perform the steering angle sensor calibration procedure per manufacturer specifications. This typically involves centering the steering wheel with wheels straight ahead and initiating the calibration sequence through the scan tool.
    ⚠️Vehicle is not safe to drive until steering angle sensor is properly calibrated

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are securely fastened and do not rattle
2. Verify steering wheel returns to center when turned and released
3. Check that all column adjustments (tilt and telescope) function normally

Verification

• Start vehicle and verify no airbag, traction control, or stability control warning lights remain illuminated after 30 seconds
• Using scan tool, verify steering angle sensor shows correct angle (0 degrees) with wheels straight ahead
• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock and verify sensor reading changes smoothly from approximately -720 to +720 degrees
• Test drive vehicle at low speed in a safe area and verify traction control and stability control systems function normally
• Perform a steering wheel centering check by driving straight and verifying wheel is centered with no pull

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